A FILM company issued a statement last night to allay fears over its intention to make a Bollywood film in the North-East.

The move comes after a Darlington woman made a complaint to the police after she was asked to hand over her driving licence and a utility bill when she attended auditions, held over the weekend of September 7 and 8. As yet, she says, neither had been returned.

Last night, a manager of Pinnical Promotions, which is promoting the film for Indian company KK Films, said all documentation had been sent to all those who applied by registered post.

A spokesman for Cleveland Police confirmed a complaint had been received.

Producers said they wanted to base an Indian blockbuster - Ya Jaan Bhi Tumari, Ye Dil Bhi Pumhata - which translates as My Life Is Yours, My Heart Is Yours - on Teesside, with other locations such as High Force waterfall in Teesdale, Whitby, Durham Cathedral and Easby Abbey, near Richmond, under consideration.

The woman, who asked not to be identified, said: "I thought it was just proof of identification and I assumed I would have them back by the end of last week.

"They said some people may need to go to India and some people may need to get an Equity (the actors' union) card.

"I assumed I would have my documents back at the end of last week. You can open bank accounts and get all sorts of credit, and that does worry me because it was supposed to be returned by registered post. I'm driving around without a licence."

Pinnical Promotions manager Mohammed Alli said he had been in touch with police and shown them a list of registered post, supplied by the Post Office.

The Northern Echo was also shown the Royal Mail registered post dockets and saw the woman's name on one of them.

Mr Alli, who said extras were still needed, added that anyone with concerns can call Pinnical Promotions on (01642) 211385.